The Valais Blacknose Embryo Rodeo: Not our first ride, still holding on

This is our fifth year working with embryos, frozen and when possible, fresh. It’s been a journey. Some years we’re on cloud nine. Other years, we’re scratching our heads wondering what went wrong. What we’ve learned is that embryo work isn’t simple, but you don’t need a PhD to get started.

We’re not experts. But we're committed. We’ve done the work, asked the questions, and learned (sometimes the hard way) what to look for and what to avoid and we're still learning.

Here’s What We Know Now:

• Embryo quality matters. Ask for the flush sheet. Stick with the highest grade (A or 1 grades) when you can.

• Who you buy from matters more. If they’re not transparent, we’re not buying. Relationships are everything.

• There are no guarantees. Even doing everything "right" doesn’t promise a pregnancy. Some years you hit gold, other years you don’t.

• The right vet is worth every penny. Thawing and implanting is a delicate process. We’ve used multiple specialists and learned that skill and care make a difference.

• Know your costs. Embryos are just the beginning, there’s shipping, vet work, recips, follow-ups, and transport.

  
  

Our Best Advice?

Do your homework. Ask questions. And don’t be afraid to walk away if something feels off. The best breeders will want you to succeed. They’ll answer honestly, show you their paperwork, and help you make informed decisions.

Valais Blacknose Embryo work isn’t a shortcut, it’s a commitment and a gamble all rolled into one. But when it works? It’s one of the most exciting parts of breeding.

Hope this helps someone who’s just getting started. We’re still learning too.